18 Hardest Restaurant Reservations To Score In Los Angeles
Los Angeles is home to some of the most sought-after dining experiences in the world. From intimate kaiseki dinners to bustling Italian supper clubs, securing a table at these high-demand restaurants can be a challenge. Here are 18 of the hardest reservations to score in LA, each offering a unique culinary adventure that draws food lovers from near and far.
1. n/naka — Palms
Imagine a dining experience where every detail is meticulously crafted. At n/naka in Palms, Chef Niki Nakayama offers an exquisite two-Michelin-star kaiseki meal. The intimate setting makes each reservation highly coveted.
Seats are released weekly and disappear quickly, so planning is essential. The experience is elegant and thoughtful, making it a favorite for special occasions.
Expect a slow, immersive evening that’s far from a casual night out. The precision in each dish reflects a deep commitment to culinary artistry.
2. Hayato — ROW DTLA
Hayato offers a unique dining experience with just seven seats available per night. Chef Brandon Hayato Go crafts each dish with meticulous care, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese kaiseki.
Reservations open monthly and vanish almost instantly. The exclusivity and precision make it one of LA’s toughest tables to secure.
Diners are treated to an elegant culinary journey that feels both intimate and luxurious. It’s a special place where patience and planning pay off.
3. Providence — Hollywood
Providence stands as a beacon of fine dining in Hollywood, boasting three Michelin stars. The long tasting menus and exceptional service have earned it a top spot in LA’s dining scene.
Reservations fill up quickly, often booked months in advance. Each visit is an opportunity to savor innovative seafood dishes in a refined setting.
The commitment to quality and creativity keeps diners returning and makes securing a spot a rewarding challenge.
4. Melisse — Santa Monica
At Melisse, Chef Josiah Citrin presents a refined tasting menu experience in Santa Monica. With just 14 seats, the atmosphere is both exclusive and intimate, offering a personal touch to each meal.
The buzz from its Michelin accolades means reservations are highly competitive. Diners are treated to a culinary journey that focuses on creativity and seasonal ingredients.
It’s a destination where each dish tells a story, making the pursuit of a reservation worthwhile for food enthusiasts.
5. Le Le Dinner Club — West Adams
Le Le Dinner Club in West Adams has become the talk of the town, hailed as one of LA’s hardest reservations. The Italian supper club offers a unique dining experience that attracts thousands to the waitlist.
The blend of exquisite cuisine and cozy atmosphere creates an unforgettable evening. Diners often find themselves signing up for not just a meal but a months-long anticipation.
The club’s charm lies in its ability to make every guest feel special, adding to its allure.
6. Anajak Thai — Sherman Oaks
Anajak Thai in Sherman Oaks has evolved into a national sensation. Known for its eclectic offerings, from regular dinners to Thai Taco Tuesdays, it draws a crowd eager for a taste of authenticity.
The limited slots make reservations highly sought after. Chef Justin Pichetrungsi’s creativity shines through in every dish, keeping diners on their toes.
This decades-old gem combines tradition with innovation, earning its place as a must-visit destination for Thai cuisine lovers.
7. Mother Wolf — Hollywood
Mother Wolf, Evan Funke’s Roman-inspired restaurant, has become a culinary hotspot in Hollywood. Known for its pasta and pizza, it attracts a mix of industry insiders and tourists.
The ambiance is vibrant, and the demand is high, making it one of LA’s toughest reservations. The cacio e pepe is a standout, embodying the essence of Roman cuisine.
The combination of atmosphere and authenticity makes it a coveted destination for those seeking a true Italian experience.
8. Funke — Beverly Hills
In Beverly Hills, Funke serves as Evan Funke’s flagship, offering a chic dining experience. The restaurant’s sleek design and central location make it a favorite for special occasions.
With a dedicated pasta lab, the focus is on delivering authentic Italian flavors. Reservations book out weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity.
The blend of style and substance ensures a memorable evening for diners, making it worth the effort to secure a table.
9. Felix — Venice
Felix in Venice is a testament to the art of handmade pasta. Situated on Abbot Kinney, it draws a dedicated crowd eager to experience Chef Evan Funke’s culinary craftsmanship.
The intimate space adds to the charm, with seats near the pasta room being particularly coveted. The demand has remained steady, making reservations a challenge.
Diners appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation, making every meal a celebration of Italian cuisine.
10. Bestia — Arts District
Bestia continues to be a standout in LA’s dining scene, offering an industrial-chic setting in the Arts District. Known for its innovative Italian dishes, it’s a destination for food lovers.
Reservations require careful planning, especially for prime weekend slots. The lively atmosphere and creative menu make it a sought-after spot.
Diners often plan entire evenings around a visit, highlighting its status as a culinary institution.
11. Bavel — Arts District
Bavel, from the team behind Bestia, brings Middle Eastern flavors to the Arts District. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and creative dishes have earned it a devoted following.
Securing a reservation is a mini achievement, with tables filling up quickly. The blend of traditional spices and modern techniques creates a memorable dining experience.
Diners leave with a newfound appreciation for Middle Eastern cuisine, making it a must-visit destination.
12. Saffy’s — East Hollywood
Saffy’s in East Hollywood has become known for its modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant’s buzzy atmosphere and creative dishes have captured the attention of diners.
Reservations open far in advance, reflecting the high demand. The vibrant flavors and lively setting make it a favorite for weekend dinners.
It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, creating a unique culinary journey for every guest.
13. Pizzeria Bianco — Downtown LA
Pizzeria Bianco, the LA outpost of Chris Bianco, has generated excitement since its opening. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, it offers a rustic yet refined dining experience.
The reservation system treats it as a high-demand destination, with prime times being especially competitive. The quality of ingredients and craftsmanship is evident in every bite.
It’s a pizza place that elevates the simple into something extraordinary, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers.
14. Horses — Hollywood
Horses in Hollywood has emerged as a trendy spot with a lively dining scene. Known for its eclectic decor and innovative menu, it attracts a diverse crowd.
Securing a reservation is a feat, with national outlets highlighting its in-demand status. The blend of style and creativity makes it a captivating dining experience.
It’s a place where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance, offering something special for every guest.
15. Élephante — Santa Monica
Élephante in Santa Monica offers a dining experience that feels like a beachside escape. The rooftop views and laid-back vibe make it a popular choice for sunset dinners.
Reservations are coveted, especially on weekends, reflecting its status as a must-visit. The menu is built to share, enhancing the communal dining experience.
Diners enjoy a unique blend of atmosphere and flavors, creating an unforgettable evening by the ocean.
16. Jon & Vinny’s — Fairfax
Jon & Vinny’s on Fairfax has become synonymous with casual Italian dining in LA. Known for its pizza, pasta, and pancakes, it draws a crowd from breakfast through dinner.
The hype keeps reservations booked out, making it a sought-after spot. The casual vibe belies the seriousness of the cuisine, with each dish crafted to perfection.
It’s a place where simplicity meets excellence, creating a joyful dining experience for all.
17. Angelini Ristorante — Pacific Palisades
Angelini Ristorante in Pacific Palisades offers a polished dining experience. As an offshoot of a beloved LA institution, it combines classic Italian dishes with a refined atmosphere.
The limited space and celebrity clientele make reservations highly competitive. The focus on quality and tradition ensures a memorable meal for all.
It’s a place where neighborhood charm meets culinary excellence, offering something special for every guest.
18. The Benjamin — Hollywood
The Benjamin is a newer addition to Hollywood’s dining scene, quickly gaining a reputation for its stylish ambiance and on-trend menu. The location and design make it a hot spot for diners.
Reservations are challenging to secure, reflecting its burgeoning popularity. The blend of creativity and culinary skill ensures an engaging dining experience.
It’s a place where innovation meets style, offering something fresh and exciting for every visit.
